The investigators are conducting a research study to understand how cells responsible for fighting infection (immune cells) are affected by hormonal contraceptive use. The investigators hypothesize that progestin-containing hormonal contraceptives (i.e., Depo-Provera) inhibit host response to infection. To test this hypothesis, the investigators will collect blood and genital tract samples from women before and after their initiation of a hormonal contraceptive (either birth control pills, Depo-Provera, or Mirena).

Proliferative capacity (i.e., ability to respond to antigen stimulation) of T cells isolated from the cervix of women before and after initiating a hormonal contraceptive [ Time Frame: Prior to and ~ 1 month (but up to 2 months) after initiation of a hormonal contraceptive ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ]

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Please refer to this study by its ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01750476

Locations

United States, Pennsylvania

UPMC Adolescent Clinic of Oakland

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States, 15213

Sponsors and Collaborators

Thomas Cherpes, DVM, MD

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)